2007 Dodge Caravan vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Dodge Caravan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Dodge Caravan would be higher. At 3,299 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Dodge Caravan (170 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Dodge Caravan. (271 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Dodge Caravan. 2007 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Dodge Caravan | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Caravan | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3299 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 55 L |
